Africa turns to Chinese solar technology as oil prices rise
African solar capacity grew by 54% in 2025, adding 4.5 gigawatts, driven by falling prices of Chinese-made panels and batteries. In Nigeria, where the grid provides electricity only seven hours a day, 22 million diesel or petrol generators cost $12 billion annually, making Chinese solar an economical alternative. China also finances and builds dams, wind farms, and solar plants across Africa, and invests in battery factories in Morocco.
Why it matters: This shift illustrates the energy transition theme, as Chinese technology enables African countries to reduce oil dependence and reshape global energy markets.